Nine arrested for suspected cockfighting in Athens

ATHENS — According to our news partner kETK, nine people were arrested in Athens on Sunday for suspected cockfighting after Henderson County authorities found several dead birds. Henderson County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) said they responded to a report of suspected cockfighting near County Road 3918 in Athens. Deputies witnessed around 200 people at the scene with several of them fleeing once they saw law enforcement.

According to HCSO officials, investigators discovered many dead roosters along with evidence that suggested cockfighting transpired at the location. Once a search warrant was obtained, investigators later found a suspected fighting arena and seized various types of evidence from the scene.

“On the premises, investigators uncovered a fighting arena and confiscated sharp metal gaffs (artificial spurs attached to the rooster’s leg) commonly used in illegal cockfighting matches,” HCSO said. “A total of 89 live roosters and two deceased birds were seized from the premises along with 26 vehicles and a large amount of U.S. Currency.”

The following nine people were arrested and booked into the Henderson County Jail on cockfighting charges:

Jesus David Garza
Carlos Estrada-Guerrero
Christy Nikol Bass
Victor Hernandez Flores
Juan Carlos Flores
Thomas Urbano Flores
Shannon Dean Kellis
Otis Darren Thomas
Allan Joseph Jernigan

Note: The order in which the names are listed and the mugshots do not correspond.